Galena Trip Guide

On the Galena River, this bustling historic town features century-old buildings housing shops and restaurants; some 50 inns and hotels welcome travelers for vacation getaways.

Main Street.

Chairlift up Chestnut Mountain.

Otto's Place.

Fritz and Frites.

View from Chestnut Mountain Resort's deck.

Eagle Ridge Resort. Photo by Karen Sorensen.

What to do

A Bushel and a Peck After you’ve speant a day shopping in downtown Galena, zip out to nearby Schapville and explore this food and antiques store in a former blacksmith shop. See reviews and ratings.[1] (888) 635-4616

Rocky Waters Vineyard South of Galena in Hanover, the winery’s labels include Wild Turkey Blush and Tower Red. Check out the deck view. See reviews and ratings.[22] (815) 591-9706; rockywaters.net[23]

Ulysses S. Grant Home If you are a fan of presidential history, make time for a short visit to the home presented to Ulysses S. Grant upon his return to Galena as a Civil War hero. See reviews and ratings.[24] (815) 777-3310; granthome.com[25]

Washburne House Learn about Elihu Washburne, a congressman and political adviser to Lincoln, at this historic home. Seasonal. (815) 777-3310; illinoishistory.gov[26]

One Eleven Main Local and seasonal ingredients take the spotlight at this smart dinner spot. Cuisine is hearty and high-end, running from burgers to glazed duck breast. Start with beer-chedar fondue. See reviews and ratings.[36] (815) 777-8030; oneelevenmain.com[37]

Otto’s Place Cafe and Lounge Stop in for an old-fashioned breakfast or lunch. Banana bread French toast and veggie-goat cheese fritattas are worth waking up for. See reviews and ratings.[38] (815) 776-0240; ottosplace.com[39]

Vinny Vanucchi’s Little Italy The inspiration for the Italian menu came from co-owner Deb Coulter’s grandmother, who always seemed to have a pot of sauce on the stove and basil in the house. See reviews and ratings.[41] (815) 777-8100; vinnysgalena.com[42]

Where to stay

Chestnut Mountain Resort Warm-weather activities include an alpine slide (a sled that goes down 2,050 feet of track) and river cruises. From $99. See reviews and ratings.[43] (815) 777-1320; chestnutmtn.com[18]

Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa This sprawling, luxury resort on 6,800 acres has a wide range of lodgings (from single inn rooms to six-bedroom homes) and activities, including 63 holes of golf, an arcade and hot-air balloon rides. From $129. See reviews and ratings.[46] (800) 892-2269; eagleridge.com[47]

Goldmoor Inn Luxury suites and cottages overlook the Mississippi. A turret suite sets the perfect mood for a romantic getaway. From $275. See reviews and ratings.[48] (800) 255-3925; goldmoor.com[49]

The Inn at Irish Hollow Nine miles from Galena, this 500-acre property offers opulent cabins and three guest rooms in an old general store. From $185 for a room, from $295 for a cottage. See reviews and ratings.[50] (815) 777-6000; irishhollow.com[51]